Disabled Veterans Wildlife Facility

01/26/2018

01/26/2018

On 1-20-18 the Disabled Veterans Wildlife Facility was visited by a much different group of people. Several men from the First General Baptist Church of Bloomfield, Mo., representing an organization called KOZ (Kids Outdoor Zone), brought a group of youngsters to the facility. These men act as mentors and role models for young men in the area. In addition to having a lot of fun, these young men learned a lot about wildlife conservation . They helped to build brush piles for rabbit habitat, took down hunting blinds used by disabled veterans earlier in the year , and observed and learned about the use of food plots and other wildlife conservation practices. By their work they made considerable improvements which will make the facility a much better place for disabled veterans in the future.
They enjoyed a fine BBQ meal of deer burgers, hot dogs, etc., prepared by Mr. Harold Freeman.
These men are to be commended for giving their time and hearts to improving the lives of young men in our community and at the same time, serving our disabled veterans.

04/17/2017

I experienced a very humbling situation today. A veteran of the war in Iraq asked to utilize the Disabled Veterans Wildlife Facility. Upon his arrival I asked what he would like to do for the day; fish, view wildlife or just enjoy Mother Nature and relax. His answer was somewhat surprising. He said , "actually I am here to help you with whatever you need to help keep this place for veterans to enjoy as I have in the past". Now you need to realize that this individual requires the use of a prosthesis to walk . Without hesitation he demanded something to do and advised me that it was not to be something easy. I quickly picked out some things that my 76 year old body does not do well any more. What an inspiration and more reason than ever to show our appreciation to Disabled Vets, especially those who want to give back to others when they themselves have given so much

02/15/2017

On 2-1-17 the Disabled Veterans Wildlife Facility , in cooperation with the Missouri Dept. of Conservation, hosted a rabbit hunt for women. The Gobbler Ridge Farm site was one of several that day to provide a hunting opportunity for women to become more involved in hunting and outdoor activities . Two ladies were on hand for the hunt, Rhonda Welker and Krissi Dye of Jackson, Mo. They were supervised by Agent Caleb Pyror with the MDC. Also present was Blaine and Allen Chappell with three of their outstanding Beagles. It was a beautiful day, the beagles performed wonderfully and with several chases taking place . The ladies had several opportunities to take a shot at rabbits , but the score was more like rabbits 5, Ladies 1. But as always, the joy is not in the kill, but the thrill of hearing the beagles sounding off on the trail, and enjoying the beauty of mother nature. The group enjoyed a lunch at the Gobbler Ridge Farm Cabin, which was provided by the MDC. Our thanks to the Missouri Dept. of Conservation for their encouragement and help in promoting outdoor experiences for women.